Shaped by Wind and Water
July 2 - August 1, 2004Opening Reception: "First Friday" July 2 , 2004, 5 - 8 p.m.Artists Michael Kahn and Celia Pearson will be available at the opening reception to sign their books The Spirit of Sailing and Seaglass respectively.

Whether reflected in sea glass, the curve of shoreline, or the shape of a sail, the magical confluence of wind and water produces wonders that have captivated artists for thousands of years. Larry and I welcome you to join us for our latest exhibit, Shaped by Wind and Water, featuring photographs by Michael Kahn and Celia Pearson, and a new series of paintings by Marcy Dunn Ramsey. The exhibition will run from July 2 through August 1.

In addition to a stunning exhibit, we are thrilled to be hosting a book signing for Michael Kahn and Celia Pearson as a First Friday event on Friday, July 2, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Gallery. Meredith Davies Hadaway will add to the festivities with the sounds of her Celtic harp.

Michael Kahn’s The Spirit of Sailing – A Celebration of Sea and Sail, succeeds in capturing his two passions – sailing and photography. For Kahn, sailboats represent the ability of people to work with nature, to harness the power of the wind and endure the strength of the sea. We will be exhibiting Michael’s original photographs from the book as well as a new series of images.

Celia Pearson worked in collaboration with local author Richard LaMotte to produce Pure Sea Glass, destined to be one of the definite works on sea glass for both the novice and the discerning collector. Pearson elegantly captures the extraordinary qualities of these random pieces of glass fashioned by man and honed by Mother Nature. LaMotte drew his inspiration for the book from his wife Nancy’s collection of sea glass. Several years ago Nancy created a line of sea glass jewelry and launched her own company – Chesapeake Seaglass Jewelry. Nancy’s designs will be featured at the Kerns Collection (across the street from the Gallery) as their First Friday event.

Marcy Dunn Ramsey’s latest work continues her enduring theme of shoreline ephemera. The new paintings represent a deeper probing into color relationships and the emotional impact color can convey. Some pieces are brooding reflections on mortality; others are lighthearted and refreshingly bright, while several are in a softer focus, with a brushy, looser handling of the paint. In all they still ask the questions; what is apparent and what is hidden; what is reflected and what is submerged, and finally, what can be found in the spaces between.
Friday night will be the kick-off for a wonderful weekend of celebrations in and around Chestertown starting with First Friday and culminating with a traditional Victorian 4th of July celebration in the town park. Visit www.kentcounty.com for more information.